Mohlakoana made Banyana Banyana’s intention very clear early in the first half when she sent in a fierce shot but it went wide of the Hungary goal.

Lebohang Ramalepe was the next to test the opposition goalkeeper but her shot was saved. Hungary also fired a ferocious shot at Barker but found her alert.

However, there was no denying Thembi Kgatlana in the 21st minute. She was set free with a delightful pass, left her marker for dead and slotted the ball past the advancing Biro Barbara in the Hungary goals to give Banyana Banyana a 1-0 lead at the break.

South Africa suffered a setback when Dlamini was stretchered off after she was fouled in the 51st minute and Esau replaced her.

Sensing defeat, the Europeans sent everyone into attack. They were almost rewarded when their strike hit the cross bar, and the ball was cleared, helping Banyana Banyana survive.

South Africa made another forced substitution when Thembi Kgatlana had to leave the field injured and Smeda took her place.

The game moved from end to end, with both teams attacking each but no real chances created.

In the end, South Africa got their first three points of the tournament – to leave them second in the group with four points.

In the other clash played earlier in the day, South Korea defeated Slovakia 1-0 to take control of Group C. The Asian side are now on six points after two rounds of matches.

Banyana Banyana’s third and final group stage match will against South Korea at 1pm on Monday.
Hungary will face Slovakia in the later kickoff at 18h00.

Picture of Csiszar Henrietta of Hungary being challenged by Bambanani Mbane of South Africa courtesy of Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix